Martha Washington’s service as First Lady ended on March 4, 1797, upon return to Mount Vernon.
With the end of George Washington's presidency on March 4, 1797, the couple returned to their Mount Vernon estate. Despite leaving the public sphere, Martha’s influence continued through correspondence and personal engagements. Her transition from national to private life marked a return to domestic responsibilities, though her influence on the role of First Lady paved the way for her successors.